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The Michigan Attorney Discipline Board has affirmed a hearing panel order of a 30 day suspension and restitution, rejecting the attorney's claim that the panel erred in refusing to vacate his default for failure to answer the formal complaint.

The attorney's excuse for the default was that he is a sole practictioner and had other pressing matters that require his attention. He claimed that the disciplinary matter was "overlooked" and that "the fact that the matter was set for hearing which would suggest that an answer was not needed."

It was needed under Michigan rules.

The board found that the defaulted attorney failed to demonstrate that the panel abused its discretion and was "both perplexed and concerned" over the attorney's inability to read and follow its rules. (Mike Frisch)